Broadband Genie analysis of 400k speed tests rates three top and O2 bottom
Three is the fastest mobile network in the UK, according to independent switching site Broadband Genie which analysed over 400,000 speed tests, comparing 88 providers.
Three averaged a download speed of 50Mb, beating EE Mobile (41Mb), Sky Mobile (39Mb) and Vodafone Mobile (39Mb). O2 was last with a download speed of 20 MB.
In January network diagnostics company Ookla also said Three had the fastest 5G network in the latter half of last year.
“An average of 50Mb puts Three ahead of the 32Mb UK broadband average for all wireless broadband options. But there is a considerable gap between Three and the UK’s average for fixed-line services, which sits at 109Mb Three has experienced considerable growth in 2021 and 2022 compared to its competitors. This could hint that more customers are using the newer, faster 5G products” said Broadband Genie expert Alex Tofts.
“Three’s performance has proved it to be the fastest mobile provider in the UK. This is a huge upset. EE positions itself as the leading brand regarding speed and coverage, while Three has been the consumer champion regarding value.
“The gap between the fastest mobile networks and the fixed line average is not a million miles away. Mobile broadband offers a great option when a fixed-line service is not available. It also gives the customer the advantage of being able to take their connection with them, wherever they go. Mobile broadband contracts are usually available in shorter lengths, as well as pay-as-you-go options.
“However, Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite broadband is head and shoulders above the competition when looking across the whole wireless broadband landscape. The service doesn’t come cheap, though. There’s a hefty £460 signing-up fee to get the hardware, with the monthly cost set at £75. This high barrier entry fee may put off some customers.”
“Starlink satellite broadband is head and shoulders above the competition”